OUR HISTORY
What Make Us Different
At the heart of Ishimwe Children Foundation (ICF) lies a deep sense of gratitude to God and a desire to share his blessings with those in need. Our story began in January 2020, during the difficult days of the COVID-19 lockdown. As families struggled to put food on the table due to job losses and widespread uncertainty, we felt called to respond not just with prayers of thanksgiving, but with tangible acts of love.
With limited resources but abundant compassion, we began reaching out to vulnerable households, offering essential food supplies. The joy and relief seen in these families reminded us of God’s faithfulness and affirmed the need for continued service. During this time, we discovered a deeper reality: many families were not only battling hunger, but also grappling with stress, trauma, and hopelessness.
In response, we adopted a holistic approach, conducting regular home visits to pray with families and offer words of encouragement. This spiritual and emotional support became a lifeline for many, strengthening their resilience in the face of hardship.
By May 2021, as schools prepared to reopen, a new challenge emerged: many children from low-income families could not afford to return to school. Recognizing the power of education to break cycles of poverty, we shifted our focus from food relief to providing school supplies; Books, Pens, and Basic Materials, so that these children could resume learning with dignity and hope.
It was during this journey of service and transformation that the vision for Ishimwe Children Foundation was born. On January 25th, 2021, ICF was officially conceived as a Community-Based Organization, rooted in compassion, driven by purpose, and committed to uplifting the lives of Vulnerable Children. What began as a small act of gratitude has grown into a lasting movement of love, support, and change..
What Derives Us
OUR VISION
Building a Better Future for Vulnerable Children
OUR MISSION
Combatting the widespread issue of illiteracy among Vulnerable Children.
OUR OBJECTIVES
Ishimwe Children Foundation (ICF) is committed to transforming lives by supporting vulnerable children through access to quality education, promoting their rights, and restoring hope to the hopeless. We empower young minds with hands-on skills, nurture patriotism and a God-fearing spirit, and provide counseling and mentorship to guide children into becoming responsible, mature, and purpose-driven adults
OUR CORE VALUES
Humanity, Love, Diversity
MEET OUR TEAM
Denis Rubyiruko
(Founder & Executive Director)
Mr. Denis Rubyiruko is a visionary humanitarian leader and the Founder and Executive Director of Ishimwe Children Foundation (ICF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing care, education, and holistic support to orphaned and vulnerable children in Uganda-kabale District.
With a strong passion for child advocacy and community empowerment, Mr. Rubyiruko has been instrumental in establishing and expanding ICF’s programs since its inception in 2021. Under his leadership, the foundation has grown into a recognized institution committed to restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity to many children.
He combines deep compassion with strategic thinking, working closely with local communities, international donors, and volunteers to create sustainable change.
Bruce and Shirlene Jones
(USA-mbassadors)
We are Bruce and Shirlene Jones. We are the American ambassadors for Ishimwe Children Foundation. We are currently semi retired and living in Central Texas. We have worked with at risk youth for many years, serving as House Parents and support staff. This experience has given us a greater compassion for young kids in need. We began this journey when we sponsored a child from Compassion International. As he grew we supported him monthly and sometimes we gave a special family gift. As he became an adult we connected through social media. This is how we met Denis and became connected to Ishimwe. Shirlene traveled to Uganda to visit our Compassion child Kenneth, and to see the Ishimwe orphanage. She saw that Denis was doing all he could do to help these kids but at times it was just not enough so we wanted to do more. Since then we have found a few people to join with us and help support these wonderful kids. It is our desire to help these kids in any way we can, mainly through finding people who are willing to support them financially.
Edmund Tumwesigye Watson
(Board Chairperson)
Edmund Tumwesigye Watson is a passionate leader, humanitarian, and advocate for children’s rights with a strong track record of service in community development and nonprofit leadership. As the Board Chairman of Ishimwe Children Foundation, he provides visionary guidance and governance oversight, ensuring that the organization fulfills its mission to uplift vulnerable children through education, healthcare, and emotional support.
With a heart for service and a mind for strategy, Edmund has played a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation’s growth, strengthening partnerships, and expanding its reach across communities. His leadership is marked by transparency, integrity, and a deep belief in the power of giving every child a chance to thrive.
Rogers Matsiko
(Board Vice Chairperson)
Rogers is a compassionate and dedicated community leader currently serving as the Vice Chairperson of ICF Orphanage. He holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Social Work and Social Administration. With over 15 years of experience in child welfare, community development, and nonprofit leadership, he has played a pivotal role in overseeing the strategic direction, Governance, and welfare programs of the orphanage.
His leadership has enhanced educational access, improved living standards for the children, and strengthened partnerships with donors and government institutions. Mr, Rogers is known for her strong ethical values, advocacy for vulnerable children, and ability to lead with empathy and accountability.
Pr.Nicholas twesigye
(Spiritual Leader)
Pastor Nicholas Twesigye is a dedicated servant of God, a passionate preacher, and a spiritual mentor with a heart for transforming lives through faith and compassion. As the Spiritual Leader at Ishimwe Children Foundation (ICF), he plays a vital role in nurturing the spiritual well-being of the children, staff, and the broader community served by the foundation.
Pastor Nicholas brings deep theological insight, pastoral care experience, and a commitment to holistic ministry. His leadership ensures that spiritual growth remains central to the Foundation’s mission of restoring hope and dignity to vulnerable children. Through prayer, counseling, and biblical teaching, he helps build a Christ-centered environment of love, healing, and purpose.
Godfrey Munyambabazi
(Board Secretary)
Mr. Godfrey Munyambabazi is a committed and detail-oriented administrative professional currently serving as the Secretary of ICF Orphanage. With a strong background in administration, record-keeping, and nonprofit coordination, he plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth organizational operations.
Godfrey is responsible for maintaining accurate records, preparing reports, handling official correspondence, and coordinating meetings and events. He is highly organized, discreet, and dedicated to supporting the mission of caring for and empowering orphaned and vulnerable children.
Anisha Asiimwe
(Chidren’s Welfare Officer)
Ms. Anisha Asiimwe is a dedicated and compassionate child welfare professional currently serving as the Children’s Welfare Officer at Ishimwe Children Foundation (ICF). She is deeply committed to the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of the children under the foundation’s care.
With a background in social work and child development, Anisha works closely with caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals to ensure that every child at ICF receives holistic support. She is known for her nurturing nature, strong communication skills, and her ability to advocate for vulnerable children with empathy and professionalism.